How to Pair Wine with BBQ: 6 Must-Try Combinations

When you think of a summer barbecue, what’s in your glass? If beer or cocktails are your go-to, it’s time to shake things up. Wine, especially red wines, can be the ultimate companion to smoky, grilled meats, bringing out flavors you didn’t even know existed.

I’m Jacqueline, and I spend my time hunting down incredible, off-the-beaten-path wines from small artisan producers around the world. At Vero, we believe wine should be an experience—one that tells a story, enhances your food, and brings people together. So today, let’s talk about how you can elevate your barbecue game with the perfect wine pairings. Fire up the grill, grab a glass, and let’s dive in!

Wine and BBQ Pairing 101

Pairing wine with barbecue isn’t just about red vs. white—it’s about matching flavors, textures, and intensity. Here are three quick tips to keep in mind:

Match Intensity – A big, bold wine can handle heavily spiced or sauced meats, while lighter wines shine with more delicate flavors.

Consider Texture – Wines with acidity or tannins help cut through rich, fatty meats, making each bite balanced and delicious.

Think About Cooking Method – Grilled meats pick up smoky, charred flavors, which pair beautifully with wines that have earthy or spicy notes.

Now, let’s get to the good stuff—our top six wine and barbecue pairings you need to try!

1. Montepulciano d’Abruzzo & Lamb Skewers

Lamb’s bold flavor and smoky char from the grill call for a wine with structure. Montepulciano d’Abruzzo brings ruby-red fruit, earthiness, and balanced tannins that make it a natural match. Want to mix it up? Try a chilled Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo, a rosé made from the same grape—perfect for a summer cookout!

2. Dolcetto & Bacon-Wrapped Chili Dogs

Hot dogs are a backyard barbecue staple, but let’s take them up a notch—bacon-wrapped chili dogs paired with Dolcetto. This red wine’s acidity and juicy plum notes cut through the richness, while its soft tannins complement the spice. Pro tip: if your chili has serious heat, Dolcetto’s fruitiness helps keep things balanced.

3. Barbera & Grilled Pork

Barbera, a red grape from Piedmont, is a pork lover’s dream. Its natural acidity slices through the fat, while bright cherry flavors stand up to rich rubs and sauces. Whether you’re making pulled pork, ribs, or juicy sausages, Barbera has you covered.

4. Schioppettino & Spicy BBQ

Grilling with spice? Meet Schioppettino, a lively red from Friuli Venezia Giulia. With bright acidity, low tannins, and peppery notes, it’s the perfect counterbalance to fiery flavors. Whether you’re making Korean BBQ, spicy wings, or anything doused in hot sauce, this wine will keep things fresh and exciting.

5. Nebbiolo & Steak

Some pairings are classics for a reason—Nebbiolo and steak is one of them. This high-tannin, high-acid grape (think Barolo or Langhe Nebbiolo) softens against a juicy, grilled steak, creating a rich, velvety mouthfeel. Floral and earthy notes in the wine enhance the deep umami flavors of the meat. Simply put, it’s a match made in BBQ heaven.

6. Zweigelt & Burgers

Zweigelt is Austria’s answer to the perfect burger wine. Its juicy red fruit, light body, and lively acidity make it ideal for everything from classic cheeseburgers to gourmet creations with bacon or chili. If you love loaded burgers, try a lightly oaked Zweigelt from the Czech Republic for extra depth.

Ready to upgrade your next barbecue with wine? You can find many of these incredible wines at verovino.com. 

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